Overview & Reviews

The Pontiac Grand Prix started out as a personal luxury car in the early 1960s. Back then, personal luxury meant a big coupe with a big V8 and a stylish interior, usually featuring plush bucket seats and a floor shifter. Exterior design bordered on flamboyant at times, but the Grand Prix made no apologies for its unabashed sense of American style and performance.

In more recent times, the Pontiac Grand Prix offered consumers a sensibly sized family coupe or sedan, with plenty of performance on tap thanks to the availability of peppy V6 engines or even a powerful V8. Styling continued to be a draw, with a sweeping roof line and the signature twin-grille nose. Unfortunately, another hallmark of the Grand Prix was an overly plasticky interior, with various switches and knobs typically rendered in gray plastic that looked more Fisher-Price than General Motors. Pontiac improved the interior toward the end of the Grand Prix's run, but it still couldn't hold a candle to the high-quality interiors of its import-brand rivals.

Would the Grand Prix be a good choice for a family vehicle? That depends on what dad (or mom) wants. If performance is paramount and a smallish backseat is not a problem, then a used GP deserves a look. On the other hand, if high-quality fit and finish and roomy rear quarters are more important, then the import competition will be a better match.

Most Recent Pontiac Grand Prix

The last-generation Pontiac Grand Prix debuted in 2004 and was terminated after 2008. It benefited from a refined engine lineup, fine-tuned ride and handling characteristics and a more driver-friendly cockpit with large gauges and, for the most part, simple controls. The coupe was dropped, leaving the sedan as the lone body style.

There were two trim levels for the Grand Prix's last year of production in 2008 -- base and GXP. The base model came with a 200-horsepower V6 as well as 16-inch wheels, OnStar, a CD player, cruise control, air-conditioning, keyless entry, and power windows and mirrors. The GXP included a 303-hp V8, firmer suspension tuning, performance tires, a head-up display, unique trim and 18-inch alloys. Leather seating and automatic dual-zone climate control were optional.

Performance, even in the base model, was satisfying, and got quite a bit stronger from there. Although the V8-powered GXP provided a thrilling rush of power, torque steer was a problem with this front-drive chassis. Sadly, the abundant power infusion wasn't enough to keep the Grand Prix wholly competitive. Compared to the top sport-oriented sedans, the Pontiac felt unrefined in terms of handling dynamics and cabin fitments.

Prior to the 2008 model year, the last-generation Grand Prix was available in a GT trim level that featured a supercharged 260-hp V6, 17-inch wheels and some features that were options on the base model. For buyers interested in a used Grand Prix, we would recommend the GT over the other trims because of its balance of power, fuel economy and handling.

Past Pontiac Grand Prix Models

The previous-generation Pontiac Grand Prix was built from 1997-2003. Available as either a sleek coupe or a handsome four-door sedan, this Grand Prix offered brisk acceleration and a tight suspension for a relatively affordable price. The supercharged 3800 V6 debuted with this generation (in the GTP trim) and offers a great combination of power and fuel efficiency. Downsides include a somewhat raucous power delivery, a harsh ride over rough surfaces (in GT and GTP models), cheap interior materials and needlessly complex controls. Still, consumers have given this generation high marks in terms of performance, handling, fuel economy and style. It should be noted that this generation's base model had slightly different (and less sporty) front and rear styling from the GT and GTP models.

Prior to that, there was the 1988-'96 generation, available in both coupe and sedan body styles. This car was a bit smaller and its styling went overboard in the body-cladding area. Typical of many GM products, this Grand Prix's strengths lay in its powertrains and performance, while weak points included cheap interior materials, overly busy controls and mediocre rear seat comfort.

From 1978-'87, the Pontiac Grand Prix was offered solely as a personal luxury coupe, which had been downsized from the excessively large cruisers of the '60s and '70s. But like those earlier GPs, this era's priorities were flashy styling and plush interiors. From a collector's standpoint, the 1962-'72 Grand Prix are most worthy of consideration, as powerful engines (such as the 421 V8 with tri-power carburetion) and eye-catching styling make them cruise-night favorites.

User Reviews:

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  GP GT - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By FC - October 2 - 6:43 pm

  I bought this car for my wife. Certified GM used with warranty. It offers a good drive, with excellent comfort for the leather bucket seats. Driver ergonomics are unmatched. However, with the 200 hp 3800, it feels big and lumbering. I love the rumble from the dual exhaust, but its an overall underwhelming experience. Id definitely recommend finding a GTP for more power. It has great looks and we love the silver exterior with the black leather and moonroof. Heater fan detonated recently, a costly repair without the bumper to bumper warranty. Other than that, not a single problem!

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  Wonderful car except - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Marco - October 1 - 2:26 am

  Its been a year since buying the GP sedan. After the first 10,000 mi with zero problems, it is clear that if GM could build all of their cars this well...

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  Great Car!! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Mr Beatnick - September 28 - 10:00 am

  This is a very good car. This just makes me feel good about American cars once again,and on top of that I still have some cash in my pocket.

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  American muscle - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By BMW KILLER - September 27 - 1:13 am

  I have had my GXP for few months now. I had an 04 GTP and I must say that having the GXP is a big difference. The rumble from the exhaust is much greater and once you step on the gas you go. The tires are summer tires though which is a concern living in Chicago. Overall its a blast to drive.

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  Love this Car! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By aaaprotected - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2004 Pontiac brand new! It has 132,000 miles on it and I still love this car like when I bought it. I have only had minor things go wrong, but nothing ever major! I sadly trading it in for something newer with less miles. Being Pontiac isnt making these anymore I am having to search for a car just as great! If you love POWER you will love the 3.8 motor.

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  Great Car - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By paintdude - September 24 - 2:40 pm

  I bought this car as a used program unit..What a great car. Comfort is bar none, the seats are awesome. Brakes are excellent,steering is excellent. The electronic features are just awesome...The more I drive it the more I like it..We just love this car..

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  Setting the pace - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Jeffery A. Lowery - September 22 - 2:00 am

  The engine preformance is great for a V6, it will put you back in your seat. Cup holders are needed in the rear seating area and an arm rest, ashtry would also be nice. I cant say enough about the sedan, Im 41 years old and would never think about owning anything other than a coupe but this machine did win me over!

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  Good Value - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By dmy - September 22 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Grand Prix. I bought my 97 because it was a good value and the 04 GTP comp remains a good value. I looked at the G35 and Maxima but when negotiating a deal GM remained the most competitive with a ton of rebates. The car is still fun to drive and practical when traveling. Still find the tires to be slippery in rain like the 97 but a set of Coopers will fix that in time. Had a difficult time selling the 97...hope the 04 grows on me as well.

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  Great GTP Sedan - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Mallified - September 21 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed my GTP since I bought it. The performance is awesome. Upgrade to the Borla exhaust system and a Thrush cold air induction system to get a significant increase in accelleration. I love driving my GTP. Plenty of room front and back. Very comfortable on long hauls too.

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  I loved her til the end - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Athena - September 20 - 8:56 am

  I recently turned in my 02 Grand Prix GT Sedan. It was my 3rd Grand Prix in a row since I lease every 3 years. It was a wonderful car - great pickup, good in the snow, roomy inside, big trunk, good sound system & overall fun to drive! I had to have a few items replaced near the end of my lease (water pump, door hinge, entire new sunroof) - but nothing was earth shattering & all was covered under the warranty. I would have purchased it when my lease was over but the price GM wanted me to pay was $3,000 over blue book value!!! Wake up GM!!!